Patong Bay safe for swimming, despite algae bloom, say experts

PHUKET: Officials confirmed that Patong Bay water was within safe parameters for recreational use, despite reports of swimmers developing rashes from the brown colored water.

“The water turned brown last week due to a plankton bloom. However, there is no health risk,” said Suphasit Boonpeinphol of the Phuket Marine Biological Center (PMBC).

Plankton blooms are often caused by excessive amounts of nutrients, in the form of nitrogen and phosphorus, spurred on by days of bright sunshine. In the past, algae blooms in Patong Bay have been directly linked to untreated wastewater pouring into the popular tourist area via the Pakbang Canal at the southern end of the island (story here and here).

“Though our initial tests showed that the water is within normal parameters, we will continue testing due to the reports of people developing rashes,” confirmed Mr Suphasit.

Water samples were taken at three points: Pak Bang Canal, at the southern end of the beach; behind the Patong Police Box opposite Soi Bangla; and near Loma Park, toward the northern end of the beach.

“Tests results did show high amounts of Chaetoceros and three other types of plankton,” Mr Suphasit said. “However, there is nothing dangerous about these plankton.”

— Winai Sarot